Embedded developers looking to jump over Microsoft Windows Vista are in luck. Based on the Windows 7 kernel, Windows Embedded Standard 2011 will supersede Windows XP Embedded, currently known as Windows Embedded Standard 2009. Windows XP Embedded has been a workhorse for a while, so don’t pay too much attention to the numbering system. Windows Embedded Standard 2011 is around now and will be around well after 2011.
Windows Embedded Standard 2011 brings more than just the kernel to the table. It componentizes the build process as before, but Image Build Wizards (IBWs) make the development process a bit easier. Also, it makes it easier to prototype a system. The template system used to deliver versions like Point-of-Sale (POS) has been improved as well.
Windows 7 alone brings some major changes that embedded developers will want to get their hands on, including more power-management support. Fast boot times are also in the mix. The systems additionally provide access to the certified IPv4/IPv6 stack, which has the latest wireless networking support plus additional security through Network Access Protection (NAP).
Microsoft Hyper-V virtualization support is part of the new options. It’s used to host the virtual desktop infrastructure and can be accessed via Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) 7.0.
Microsoft